Key Facts
• The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force’s new escort ship ‘Niyodo’ entered service on May 21, 2025.
• It is the 7th vessel of the Mogami-class and joined the 12th Escort Division at Kure Base.
• ‘Niyodo’ arrived at its home port, Kure Base, for the first time over the weekend.
• A welcoming ceremony was held on the morning of May 26, 2025.
• Kure Regional Commander Kan Matsumoto encouraged crew members to engage with the local community.
• The ship features a smooth, radar-evading stealth design and operates with a reduced crew of 90.
• Captain Daishiro Watanabe emphasized the importance of building the ship’s culture and foundation.
• This marks the first new escort ship deployment at Kure Base in eight years.
Summary
The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force’s latest Mogami-class escort ship, ‘Niyodo,’ officially entered service on May 21, 2025, and made its first port call at Kure Base over the weekend. As the 7th vessel in its class, ‘Niyodo’ is equipped with advanced stealth technology, featuring a smooth exterior to evade radar detection and a reduced crew size of 90 for improved efficiency. During a welcoming ceremony on May 26, Kure Regional Commander Kan Matsumoto encouraged the crew to foster connections with the local community. Captain Daishiro Watanabe expressed pride in establishing the ship’s culture and operational foundation. This deployment marks the first new escort ship assigned to Kure Base in eight years, highlighting its strategic importance.
